Mary Anderson, born in the aftermath of the Civil War, patented the windshield wiper after experiencing a winter trolley ride in New York City. Her invention revolutionized vehicle safety during inclement weather.
Dr. James Mease, a prominent figure in Philadelphia during his lifetime, created the first known recipe for tomato ketchup in 1812. His ketchup, made from 'love apples' (tomatoes), became a national obsession for over 200 years and is now an iconic American condiment.
Walter Diemer, an accountant, invented bubble gum in his home kitchen in 1928, changing the way humans chewed. His creation, Dubble Bubble, revolutionized the gum industry and became a global sensation.